Botanical atlas
Jiaogulan
Gynostemma pentaphyllum
In the misty mountains of Guizhou province, villagers have long brewed the tender leaves of this delicate vine into a daily tea they simply called xiancao, the immortality herb, after generations were observed living long, hale lives on little else but rice, vegetables, and this humble brew. Chinese herbalists eventually took note and began studying it as a folk substitute for the far pricier ginseng root, prizing it for the same quiet, sustaining vitality without the expense. Because its leaves contain saponin compounds structurally similar to those found in Panax ginseng, jiaogulan came to be called southern ginseng, a plant of the poor that offered the resilience of a plant of the wealthy. Today it remains a cherished everyday tonic across much of Southeast Asia, sipped the way others might sip green tea.
In tradition.
In the misty mountains of Guizhou province, villagers have long brewed the tender leaves of this delicate vine into a daily tea they simply called xiancao, the immortality herb, after generations were observed living long, hale lives on little else but rice, vegetables, and this humble brew. Chinese herbalists eventually took note and began studying it as a folk substitute for the far pricier ginseng root, prizing it for the same quiet, sustaining vitality without the expense. Because its leaves contain saponin compounds structurally similar to those found in Panax ginseng, jiaogulan came to be called southern ginseng, a plant of the poor that offered the resilience of a plant of the wealthy. Today it remains a cherished everyday tonic across much of Southeast Asia, sipped the way others might sip green tea.
Traditional preparations.
The classic daily infusion, traditionally sipped much like green tea for a steady, unhurried lift.
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried jiaogulan leaf in 250 ml of just-boiled water for 8 to 10 minutes, then strain. The brew is naturally a little sweet and grassy, and can be enjoyed hot or cooled over ice.
A traditional pairing said to round out jiaogulan's flavor while lending its own gentle sweetness.
Combine 1 teaspoon dried jiaogulan leaf with a small handful of dried goji berries in a cup, cover with 250 ml just-boiled water, and steep 10 minutes before straining.
Safety.
Jiaogulan is a well-tolerated traditional tea, though large amounts can cause nausea or a laxative effect. It may lower blood pressure and thin the blood, so use caution with blood pressure medication or blood thinners, and avoid it before surgery or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Our sister app HerbLens identifies jiaogulan from a photo and keeps its full botanical portrait: growing guide, harvest notes, and look-alike warnings.
View on HerbLensAsk HerbSense how jiaogulan is traditionally used and what to know before trying anything at home.
Ask about JiaogulanHerbSense shares traditional herbal knowledge for education, not diagnosis or treatment. Herbs can interact with medicines and conditions. Speak with your doctor before acting on anything here, and seek care promptly for anything severe, sudden, or worsening.